Hoffman is 10 years old and Sharma is 13. They’ve gotten so close they even share a special handshake.

As the contest got underway at the Central Public Library in Kansas City, Missouri, they both really nailed it. It went like this for 29 rounds.

Suddenly, a word came up that should have been a cinch for Hoffman: “Stifling.” Just like that, it was game over. Hoffman was in tears but Sharma comforted his battle weary competitor with a hug. Sharma was a gracious winner.

Sharma said, “For a 5th grader to go up against a 13-year-old and tie for so that long-- is just crazy.”

Hoffman said she'll be back next year and had these words of support for her sparring partner: “I'm gonna cheer him on when he goes to nationals. And I'm really excited for him.”